Re: UCD and Innovation

On Thursday, September 18, 2003, at 4:22 AM, Anthony Colfelt wrote:

> My point is specifically about deriving inspiration for product
> development from explorative techniques such as ethnography. This kind
> of detailed examination of user behavior can 'corral' one into
> thinking about certain solutions to a problem. You set a trajectory of
> thought in a manner of speaking.

Yeah, but ethnographic research also leads to innovation like the
shopping cart done by IDEO a couple of years ago. By studying normal
user behavior and trying to get at the core of those behaviors, we can
create products that work with those existing behaviors, increase
efficiency, increase the value of the experience, and increase adoption
rates.

Additionally, ethnographic research is an invaluable tool in that it
can help prevent us from introducing unwanted/unnecessary functionality
and features into a product.

In short, you need to create a balance. Ethnographic research by itself
is valuable, but not as valuable as ethnographic research combined with
a couple of contextual interviews, focus groups, competitive analysis,
and good old fashion deep dive brainstorming.

Cheers!

Todd R. Warfel
User Experience Architect
Message First | making products easier to use
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